Pulmonary Hypertension

3D Illustration Concept of Human Circulatory System Heart Anatomy

Welcome to the Pulmonary Hypertension Research Program, a research hub that is reshaping the future of pulmonary hypertension treatment. While pulmonary hypertension (PH) currently has no cure, early and tailored treatment has been demonstrated to improve disease management and quality of life. Our research is led by Dr John Feenstra and we are dedicated to finding tailored treatments for this rare and complex disease.

About this research theme

Pulmonary Hypertension is a serious condition characterised by high blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs. Unlike regular blood pressure measured in the arm, PH refers to the pressure inside the vessels within the lungs, which can only be confirmed through an invasive procedure. This elevated lung pressure causes patients to feel short of breath and, if left untreated, can ultimately lead to right heart failure and death.

Historically, PH had a very poor prognosis, with patients living just over two years on average. However, the development of new therapies has allowed some patients to now live 10 to 15 years with the condition. The new research program focuses on four major patient groups of Pulmonary Hypertension, addressing a challenge that has long fragmented treatment across different centres. We aim to provide early treatments, individually tailored to give patients better outcomes.

Comprehensive PH Care

Our research within the Pulmonary Hypertensions Research Program (PHRP) aims to find treatments for a range of PH types:

Group 1: Pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH)
Group 2: PH due to left-sided heart disease
Group 3: PH due to lung disease
Group 4: Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension due to pulmonary artery obstruction (CTEPH)

Each group presents unique challenges and necessitates tailored treatments. We work with Australian and International experts in the field to bring specialised treatments and early access at the earliest availability for each of the PH types.

Our PHRP Team

We are a team of experienced health professionals who understand the unique experience and challenges of patients with Pulmonary Hypertension, with a referral base across all of Queensland and beyond. Dr John Feenstra’s has extensive involvement in research into pulmonary hypertension and is an expert in PH management. This research program is supported by our team of Wesley Research Institute clinical trial coordinators and doctors.